Rapper Macklemore has been removed from the U.S. leg of Ed Sheeran’s tour after expressing support for Palestine at concerts, a decision spurred by a boycott led by New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft. Macklemore performed his protest song “Hind’s Hall” and repeatedly stated “Free Palestine” at Ed Sheeran concerts, prompting criticism from groups like StopAntisemitism. Kraft, who is Jewish and a longtime supporter of Israel, stated that venues on the tour would not allow Macklemore to perform, citing “a broader history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery.” He alleged he rallied other stadium owners to issue an ultimatum to Sheeran: remove Macklemore or lose access to their venues. Messina Touring Group confirmed that venues had indeed threatened to cancel shows if Macklemore remained on the lineup.
Macklemore, in a lengthy Instagram post, confirmed his removal and acknowledged a “fundamental disagreement” with Sheeran. He stated that Sheeran informed him of Kraft’s involvement and the ultimatum. Macklemore defended his comments, arguing that criticism of Israel is not inherently antisemitic and emphasizing the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza, where over 73,780 people have been killed according to the territory’s Hamas-run health ministry, figures considered reliable by the UN. He also pointed out that the real victims are the Palestinian people.
The decision has drawn criticism and debate, with some accusing Macklemore of using his platform for political activism and others defending his right to express his views. Kraft maintained that his actions were not intended to diminish Palestinian suffering but to combat antisemitism and hold Hamas accountable for its actions. Sheeran has not publicly commented on the matter. The promoter, Messina Touring Group, confirmed that venues refused to host upcoming shows with Macklemore on the lineup, impacting potentially hundreds of thousands of fans.
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